As the days start to get longer and the beginnings of spring start to make an appearance, the residents and tourists of London can once more begin their assent towards the customs of the warmer months, and start to spend more time outside.
A Guide To The Best Rooftop Dining
The Rooftop at One Hundred, Shoreditch
In April 2022 The Rooftop was launched which is located at the top of the trendy hotel One Hundred in Shoreditch. The Palm Springs-inspired rooftop bar brings the laid-back California atmosphere to dizzying new heights in the heart of East London. Terrazzo marble with marshmallow hues complements candy-floss-coloured tiles on the walls, while peony blush stools perched under the rose-gold lamps all come together to create a pink palace. Wonderful views across East London feature the modern city skyline to the left, and a more traditional view of the grand Victorian architecture to the right, the place is a feast for the eyes
Kick-start your morning with brunch with a view where traditional staples are offered in line with their Californian theme: traditional breakfast burritos, smashed avocados on toast and sweet pancakes, which come with berry compote and marvellous maple butter. If you prefer to get there in time for sunset, an extensive cocktail menu has plenty of Californian concoctions, including an array of Mezcal options.
It is the perfect place to end up after a day exploring the streets of Shoreditch. If you go on a Sunday, you can work up your appetite by strolling around the iconic Columbia Road flower market, which has become a destination for flower fanatics from across the capital, or perhaps go on a Saturday and explore the vintage clothing market, which has a trojan of treasure on offer.
180 Soho House, The Strand
Soho House at The Strand is the perfect place to go if you enjoy the unique combination of a laid-back atmosphere coupled with exceptionally attentive service and exquisite food. The eighth-floor dining room offers an elevated experience, whether you plan on visiting for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you are guaranteed to have a great time.
The 70s-inspired place makes you feel as if you have been transported back to a more relaxed, stylish time. The menu mods to the building’s 1970s decor and heritage with contemporary updates on classic options. The highlights include fresh monkfish with samphire and beef tartare, which is utterly sublime. Known for their creative cocktails, there is an extensive menu, but the staff will be happy to craft you your personalised drink. Let them know your preferences and they will deliver you the perfect tipple.
The great thing about 180 House is that the city views can be enjoyed even in the colder months thanks to the windows that cover the restaurant, but the rooftop restaurant is at its best when you can dine al fresco and enjoy the staggering London skyline. The rooftop restaurant even has a pool outside if you fancy a swim before you dine.
Garden Rooftop, Assembly Hotel
The Garden Rooftop has arguably the best views of any rooftop restaurant in London. Located in the very heart of London’s most happening area, the West End, with panoramic views and each seat guaranteeing spectacular views across central London, it is the perfect place to spend an evening admiring the city.
The extensive menu ensures there is something on offer for everyone; if you are dropping in for drinks they are perfectly complemented by sharing dishes, including salt-and-pepper squid, courgette fritters with coconut yoghurt and a gorgeous mixed mezze. More substantial mains are also offered with the highlight being parmesan chicken schnitzel and the confit duck with blackberry sauce. They are known for their delightful desserts, so make sure you order one from the ever-changing menu
Located on the tenth floor of the Assembly Hotel, the space is in a prime position to enjoy the picture-perfect London skyline.
Bokan, Novatel
Located on the 37th floor of the Novotel Hotel in Canary Wharf is Bokan, the contemporary European restaurant with the widest panoramic views of any rooftop restaurant in London. Split over three floors with a bar, a dining room and the jewel in Bokan’s crown, the roof terrace, the restaurant’s menu was curated by chef Robert Manea and has an abundance of offerings. The seven-course tasting menu is out of this world and synthesises the best of the A La Carte menu.
Chef Manea is renowned for bringing attention to traditionally overlooked ingredients and making them the star of the plate with a contemporary twist. Once you have finished your meal you can make your way up to the top floor and take in the tremendous views of London from previously unprecedented heights.
Seabird Rooftop Restaurant, The Hoxton
Seabird, located atop the Hoxton Hotel, is the perfect place to socialise, sit back, and enjoy the impressive views. Their all-day menu is an impressive medley of Mediterranean offerings with a focus on Portuguese and Spanish dishes. Their speciality is seafood and there are wonderful, ever-changing offerings, depending on the catch of the day. At Seabird, they are experts on oysters and are proud to have London’s longest oyster list. The menu is split into snacks, small plates and large plates and sharing Spanish style is encouraged.
Here, you feel as if you have escaped London with the Mediterranean tiles, marbled bar and the coastal-inspired rooftop is a staggering sight for the eyes, combine this with the expansive views of the London skyline and you know you are in for a memorable evening.
What’s great about dining alfresco in the summer months in London is you can enjoy the best of what London has to offer: an excellent variation of food, exceptional service and drinks, and wonderful views over London’s iconic skyline.
